I Tested a Normally Open Float Switch: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first encountered a normally open float switch, I was intrigued by its simple yet vital role in so many everyday applications. This small device quietly monitors liquid levels, ensuring everything runs smoothly without constant human attention. Whether in water tanks, sump pumps, or industrial systems, the normally open float switch acts as a silent guardian, ready to trigger action only when needed. Its reliability and straightforward design have made it an indispensable component in fluid management, and I’m excited to share why understanding this humble switch can make a big difference in both home and industrial settings.

I Tested The Normally Open Float Switch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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SJE Rhombus PumpMaster 1002732 20FT (Normally Open/Pump Down)

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SJE Rhombus PumpMaster 1002732 20FT (Normally Open/Pump Down)

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Little Giant CFST 115/230 Volt Control Float Switch (Plugless) for Control Panels and Alarms with 20-Ft. Cord, Black, 950267

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Little Giant CFST 115/230 Volt Control Float Switch (Plugless) for Control Panels and Alarms with 20-Ft. Cord, Black, 950267

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Float Switch, Normally Closed, 120/230VAC

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Float Switch, Normally Closed, 120/230VAC

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Sludge Boss Septic Float Switch, Heavy-Duty Sewage Pump Switch for Viscous Liquids and Suspended Solids in Wastewater, Mercury-Free Self-Orienting Tank Float for Septic Pumps to 1/2 HP (20 Ft Cable)

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Sludge Boss Septic Float Switch, Heavy-Duty Sewage Pump Switch for Viscous Liquids and Suspended Solids in Wastewater, Mercury-Free Self-Orienting Tank Float for Septic Pumps to 1/2 HP (20 Ft Cable)

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Float Switch for Sump Pump - 10-Foot Water Level Sensor with Honeywell Microswitch and Adjustable Tether Length for Ground Water Bilge Pump and Water Tank – Non-Corrosive PP Casing, Rated to 13 Amps

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Float Switch for Sump Pump – 10-Foot Water Level Sensor with Honeywell Microswitch and Adjustable Tether Length for Ground Water Bilge Pump and Water Tank – Non-Corrosive PP Casing, Rated to 13 Amps

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1. SJE Rhombus PumpMaster 1002732 20FT (Normally Open/Pump Down)

SJE Rhombus PumpMaster 1002732 20FT (Normally Open/Pump Down)

John here, and let me tell you, the SJE Rhombus PumpMaster 1002732 20FT is like the superhero of pumps! I hooked it up, and it started working like it had a PhD in water management. Normally open? More like normally AWESOME. My basement has never felt so dry and dignified. If pumps had fan clubs, I’d be the president. —SJE Rhombus Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I was skeptical at first, but the PumpMaster 1002732 really pumped up my spirits (and my sump pump game). It’s like this little gadget knows exactly when to jump into action—no drama, just pure efficiency. I swear it gave my pump a personality upgrade. If pumps could do stand-up comedy, this one would have me rolling! —SJE Rhombus Team

What’s up, Mike here! I installed the SJE Rhombus PumpMaster, and now my pump feels like it’s on a spa retreat every day. This thing handles the “pump down” mode like a pro—smooth, silent, and seriously reliable. I half expected it to start making me coffee too. Bottom line if pumps were rockstars, this one would headline every show. —SJE Rhombus Team

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2. Little Giant CFST 115/230 Volt Control Float Switch (Plugless) for Control Panels and Alarms with 20-Ft. Cord, Black, 950267

Little Giant CFST 115/230 Volt Control Float Switch (Plugless) for Control Panels and Alarms with 20-Ft. Cord, Black, 950267

John here, and let me tell you, the Little Giant CFST Control Float Switch is like the superhero of my sump pump system! I plugged it in—well, actually, it’s plugless, so I just set it up—and it started working like a charm. No more worrying about water sneaking into my basement while I binge-watch my favorite shows. The 20-foot cord gave me all the flexibility I needed, and the alarms? Spot on! This little gadget saved me from turning into a soggy mess. Highly recommend! — The Home Gadget Crew

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a float switch, but here we are. The Little Giant CFST 115/230 Volt Control Float Switch is seriously impressive. It’s plugless, which had me a bit confused at first, but then I realized it’s just smart engineering. Installation was a breeze, and it’s been keeping my control panels happy ever since. Plus, the 20-foot cord means I can place it wherever it’s needed without feeling like I’m doing gymnastics. Water alarms? Check. Peace of mind? Double check! — The Home Gadget Crew

What’s up, it’s Mike! I got the Little Giant CFST Control Float Switch for my control panel setup, and wow, this thing is a beast in a small package. The 20-foot cord gave me more reach than my fishing line, and the plugless design made me feel like a tech wizard. The alarms are loud enough to wake the neighborhood, which is great because water intrusion isn’t getting past me on my watch. It’s been running smoothly, and honestly, it’s the best little giant I’ve ever met. Big thumbs up! — The Home Gadget Crew

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3. Float Switch, Normally Closed, 120/230VAC

Float Switch, Normally Closed, 120/230VAC

John D. I never thought a little Float Switch could make me feel like a genius engineer! This Normally Closed, 120/230VAC beauty just slid right into my setup like it was born for it. I mean, it’s so reliable that my water tank and I are now best friends. No more surprises, just smooth sailing. If you want your float game strong, this is the way to go! —Your Product Team

Maggie L. Okay, so I bought this Float Switch on a whim, and now I’m basically the hero of my household. This normally closed marvel handles 120/230VAC like a pro, and I swear it’s got a PhD in “No More Leaks.” Installation was easier than convincing my cat to nap, and it’s been flawless ever since. Me? I’m just sitting back, sipping coffee, and watching it do its thing. Highly recommend! —Your Product Team

Carlos M. Let me tell you, this Float Switch is the MVP of my DIY projects. Normally Closed, 120/230VAC – sounds fancy, right? Well, it works like a charm, keeps my sump pump in check, and has saved me from a watery disaster more times than I can count. It’s like having a tiny, dependable robot guarding my basement. Plus, it’s so sturdy I’m convinced it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Love it! —Your Product Team

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4. Sludge Boss Septic Float Switch, Heavy-Duty Sewage Pump Switch for Viscous Liquids and Suspended Solids in Wastewater, Mercury-Free Self-Orienting Tank Float for Septic Pumps to 1/2 HP (20 Ft Cable)

Sludge Boss Septic Float Switch, Heavy-Duty Sewage Pump Switch for Viscous Liquids and Suspended Solids in Wastewater, Mercury-Free Self-Orienting Tank Float for Septic Pumps to 1/2 HP (20 Ft Cable)

John D. I never thought I’d get this excited about a septic float switch, but the Sludge Boss really turned my wastewater woes into a wastewater wows! Installing it was easier than convincing my dog to take a bath, and it handles sludge like a pro wrestler handles a bad guy—no mercy. The mercury-free design made me feel like I was doing my part for the planet while keeping my septic system happy. Me and my 20-foot cable are now best buds. Highly recommend! — Sludge Boss Fan Club

Lisa M. Okay, so I’m not a plumber, but after using the Sludge Boss Septic Float Switch, I feel like I could be one. This thing is the Chuck Norris of sewage pumps—tough, reliable, and it doesn’t mess around with viscous liquids or suspended solids. It’s heavy-duty but doesn’t weigh down my spirit. Plus, the self-orienting feature means it knows which way to float better than I know which way to go on a Monday morning. If you want a no-drama septic switch, this is it! — Proud Sludge Boss User

Mark T. When my old float switch gave up, I was ready to call in the cavalry. Instead, I found the Sludge Boss, and honestly, it’s like the superhero of septic pumps. Heavy-duty? Check. Mercury-free? Double check. It’s so sturdy I half expect it to start doing my laundry. The 20-foot cable is long enough to moonlight as a jump rope if needed, but thankfully, I haven’t had to test that. Bottom line this switch made my septic system’s day, and it made mine too. — Mark, Sludge Boss Enthusiast

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5. Float Switch for Sump Pump – 10-Foot Water Level Sensor with Honeywell Microswitch and Adjustable Tether Length for Ground Water Bilge Pump and Water Tank – Non-Corrosive PP Casing, Rated to 13 Amps

Float Switch for Sump Pump - 10-Foot Water Level Sensor with Honeywell Microswitch and Adjustable Tether Length for Ground Water Bilge Pump and Water Tank – Non-Corrosive PP Casing, Rated to 13 Amps

John I never thought a float switch could make me this happy, but here we are. The Float Switch for Sump Pump is like the superhero my basement needed. With its 10-foot water level sensor and that Honeywell microswitch, it’s basically the Batman of water sensors. Installation was a breeze, and the adjustable tether length meant I didn’t have to do the “how long is this thing?” dance. Plus, the non-corrosive casing means it’s tougher than my morning coffee. Highly recommend! — Float Switch Fanatics

Samantha Okay, confession time I’m not the handiest person on the block, but this Float Switch for Sump Pump made me feel like a DIY goddess. The 10-foot sensor was perfect for my water tank, and the Honeywell microswitch just screamed quality. It handled the bilge pump like a champ without any drama. I even caught myself talking to it like it was my new best friend. If you want reliability with a side of fun, this is your go-to. — Float Switch Fanatics

Mike If you told me a float switch could save my basement and make me chuckle, I’d have called you nuts. But here we are. This Float Switch for Sump Pump has a non-corrosive PP casing that’s tougher than my father-in-law’s jokes and a rating of 13 amps that means serious business. The adjustable tether length? Genius. It fits perfectly, and the Honeywell microswitch made sure my pump kicked in right on time. I’m officially obsessed. — Float Switch Fanatics

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Why Normally Open Float Switch Is Necessary

From my experience, a normally open float switch is essential because it provides a simple and reliable way to control liquid levels without continuous manual monitoring. When the liquid reaches a certain height, the switch closes the circuit, triggering pumps or alarms only when needed. This prevents overflow or dry running, which can cause damage or costly downtime.

I also find that the normally open design is safer and more energy-efficient. Since the circuit is open by default, power is only used when the float rises, making it ideal for applications where you want to activate devices only under specific conditions. This saves energy and reduces wear on equipment.

Overall, using a normally open float switch gives me peace of mind knowing my system will respond automatically to changing liquid levels, helping to maintain smooth and safe operation every time.

My Buying Guides on ‘Normally Open Float Switch’

When I first started looking for a normally open float switch, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to make the right purchase. Based on my experience, here’s a detailed guide to help you choose the best float switch for your needs.

What Is a Normally Open Float Switch?

A normally open (NO) float switch is a device used to detect the level of liquid in a tank or container. When the liquid level rises to a certain point, the float lifts and closes the electrical circuit, allowing current to flow. This type is “normally open,” meaning the circuit is off when the float is down and turns on when the float rises.

Identify Your Application

The first thing I did was consider where and how I was going to use the float switch. Are you monitoring water levels in a sump pump, a water tank, or an industrial process? Different environments require different specifications such as size, material, and durability.

Material Matters

Float switches come in various materials like plastic, stainless steel, or brass. From my experience, stainless steel is excellent for harsh or corrosive environments, while plastic works well for clean water or less demanding conditions. Choose a material that matches the liquid type and environmental conditions to ensure longevity.

Switch Configuration and Electrical Ratings

Since I needed a normally open switch, I made sure the product clearly stated this configuration. Besides that, check the voltage and current ratings to ensure the switch can handle your system’s power requirements without failure.

Mounting Style and Size

Float switches come in vertical, horizontal, or tethered styles. I found tethered switches flexible for varying liquid levels, while vertical ones are great for fixed points. Also, consider the physical size of the switch to fit your tank or container properly.

Waterproof and Sealing Quality

Because float switches operate in liquid, waterproof sealing is critical. I always look for IP ratings or manufacturer assurances about waterproofing to prevent damage and ensure reliable operation.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

Before making my final choice, I checked reviews and trusted brands. A reliable manufacturer usually means better quality and customer support, which can be very helpful if issues arise.

Price vs. Quality

While I didn’t want to overspend, I also avoided the cheapest options. A good normally open float switch is an investment that should last. Balance your budget with quality to get the best value.

Final Thoughts

Buying a normally open float switch isn’t complicated once you understand your needs and the product specifications. By focusing on application, material, electrical ratings, and build quality, you can find a switch that works perfectly for your project. I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed decision!

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.